France is likely to offer additional Rafale aircraft to India during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s upcoming visit to the European country for the G-7 Summit on Thursday, reports The Economic Times quoting sources.
The French side, sources said, is set to offer an immediate sale of two more squadrons, which means 36 additional Rafale jets, to the Indian Air Force that has been grappling with depleting combat force levels. PM Modi is slated to meet French President Emmanuel Macron on Thursday during which both sides will hold detailed deliberations on a range of subjects including key issues like defence and maritime cooperation.
While the 2016 deal for 36 Rafale jets was signed for 7.87 billion euros, sources said additional 36 aircraft would cost significantly less because payment for fixed costs covering India-specific enhancements, training equipment and infrastructure has already been made.
The two airbases that will house Rafales on order are capable of stationing additional jets without any changes, officials said, adding this would also reduce cost.
The assessment is that France may quote less than 6 billion euros for supplying two more squadrons. Industry sources said Dassault could work out tight delivery schedules in a way that a Rafale could be rolled out for India every month over the next six years.
The delivery of the first Rafale jet for the Indian Air Force is likely to take place on September 19th, with defence minister Rajnath Singh expected to travel to France for the handing over ceremony. According to the 2016 deal, 36 jets will be delivered to India over the next three years and will be armed with advanced weaponry including the long-range Meteor air-to-air missile that will outgun all fighter jets in the neighbouring region.